Commentary by Melissa Arroyo
When I graduated in 2014, many of my peers had exciting job opportunities awaiting them.
I had nothing.
All those hours applying for jobs and doing internships led to nowhere. What did I do wrong, I wondered?
Looking back, there were many things I could’ve done, had someone given me the advice I’m about to give you. Here are a few tips you should follow:
*Remember that your connections will get you there: I wish I could tell you that your hard work in school will land you an impressive career opportunity. Although that might be true for some people, that wasn’t the case for me. I got my job at a software company because I reached out to an area marketing professional and shared ideas with him over coffee. I left an impression on him. Several months later, he offered me an opportunity to work for him. I only wish I had done this more. So go out there and meet professionals!
*Read industry-related books: I can’t emphasize this enough. When you start interviewing, you won’t have the experience to understand an employer’s problems – a.k.a., “pain points.” But if you read books written by important figures in your field, you’ll have an advantage over other recent grads because you’ll know how you can solve an employer’s biggest problems.
*When you interview, be yourself: I was told to be formal during every job interview. But by doing that, I was concealing my personality – and that only made me more nervous. Not to mention that I didn’t get any calls back. So be sure to dress your part and be prepared; but if you have an easy-going, friendly style, bring that to the interview with you, too. It’ll put you and the interviewer at ease. And the interviewer will remember that!
Of course, there are many other things you should know, but these are a few tips that made a huge difference for me. I hope they help you too.
Congratulations to all the 2017 grads!